Youth power to make Haryana drug-free: CM
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday declared that the youth of the State have resolved to fight a decisive battle against drug abuse, adding that their enthusiasm would give a new direction to the campaign to make Haryana completely drug-free.
Addressing a massive gathering as the Chief Guest at a half marathon organised in Rewari under the theme ‘Nashe se jung, Rewari ke sang’, the Chief Minister emphasised that the state Government has instituted a four-tier framework focusing on enforcement, awareness, treatment, and rehabilitation to tackle substance abuse. The marathon was aimed at taking the resolve of ‘Nasha Mukt Haryana-Khel Yukt Haryana’ to every corner of society and steering the youth towards sports.
“There can be no place for a social evil like drug abuse on the sacred land of Rewari, known across the nation for its valour, hard work, and patriotism,” Saini said. Pointing out that substance abuse is a long-standing challenge rather than a sudden development, he added: “Over the past 12 years, the Haryana Government has viewed this issue not through a political lens, but through the context of protecting the future of our youth and families.”
The Chief Minister urged young citizens to report drug-trafficking activities actively. “If you find anyone involved in drug peddling around you, do not remain silent. One piece of information can save a life and protect a family from ruin,” Saini said, appealing to every youngster to educate at least 10 peers on the perils of addiction to build a public movement.
Highlighting administrative mechanisms, Saini pointed out that the Government has operationalised an anti-drug helpline (9050891508) and linked complaints to the national ‘MANAS’ portal (1933), assuring citizens that callers’ identities remain strictly confidential.
The event witnessed over 50,000 runners being showered with flower petals from the main stage and via aerial drones along the track. In a hands-on gesture, Saini joined the participants on the running track and later planted saplings in the greenbelt to champion environmental conservation.
The 10-kilometre run was won by Monu Kumar in the men’s category and Sarita Pal in the women’s category, both receiving cheques of Rs 1 lakh alongside certificates of appreciation. Prominent dignitaries in attendance included local MLAs Laxman Yadav, Dr Krishan Kumar, Anil Yadav, Randhir Panihar, Pankaj Nain, and Commonwealth Games gold medallist para-athlete Sharmila Dhankhar.
